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Calgary Stampede on a Budget

Have fun at Calgary’s premier 10-day event with these money saving tips

October 20, 2025
4 minute read
Couple dressed in western wear walking hand in hand down the Calgary Stampede midway

Take Advantage of Value Days 

The Stampede offers special days where you can get free or discounted admission. These often include: 

Sneak-A-Peek (Thursday, July 3) - Get early access to Stampede Park from 5:00 p.m. to midnight for just $13, a day before the official kickoff. 

Parade-to-Park (Friday, July 4) - Enjoy free admission to Stampede Park from 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. immediately following the Parade. 

Tim Hortons Family Day (Sunday, July 6) - Admission is free until 11 a.m., a free pancake breakfast in the GMC Stadium Courtyard from 8-10 a.m., and a free variety show from 8-10 a.m. at GMC Stadium. 

TC Energy Community Day (Tuesday, July 8) - Free admission for everyone from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., plus free coffee and donuts for seniors (65+) and military veterans in the BMO Plaza until 11:00 a.m., while quantities last.  

BMO Kids' Day (Wednesday, July 9) - Free entry all day for kids 12 & under; free entry for everyone until 10 a.m. Plus a free breakfast and variety show at GMC Stadium from 8-10 a.m. 

 

Check the official Stampede website for the latest promotions. 

Mother and 4 kids dressed up in cowboy attire playing a midway carnival game

Calgary Stampede Midway Games (Colin Way)

Find Discounted Tickets 

Many organizations and retail stores offer value deals leading up to Stampede. Some of the best options include: 

Discounted 10-day passes: The perfect option if you are planning on visiting the grounds more than once. 

Ride & Admission Bundles: Save by purchasing a wristband that includes unlimited rides. 

Stampede Super Passes: Look for advanced ticket deals at retailers like Safeway and Costco or through the Stampede website . 

Enjoy Free Pancake Breakfasts 

Pancake breakfasts are a Stampede staple! All over Calgary, local businesses and community groups serve free pancakes along with live music and entertainment. Use FlapjackFinder.com to find one near you.  

Save on Midway Food & Drinks 

One of the best parts of Stampede is trying out the new and exciting foods on the midway. Here are some ways to save a little and still have fun:  

Water: Bring a refillable water bottle as there are many filling stations throughout the park. 

Food: To get the full experience, try sharing with a friend! This will not only save money, but also allow you to sample more options. 

A girl trying unique fair foods, an octopus tentacle on a stick.

Check Out Free Entertainment 

Many performances and attractions inside Stampede Park are included with admission, such as: 

Live Music Stages : See well-known and up-and-coming artists at free concerts. 

Western Oasis : A quieter space featuring art, wine tastings, and cultural displays. 

Agricultural Shows : Watch rodeo demonstrations, dog agility competitions, and livestock exhibits. 

 

Watch the Fireworks for Free 

Every night of the Stampede, fireworks light up the sky. Some of the best free viewing spots include: 

Scotsman’s Hill : A local favourite with a postcard view of Stampede Park and the downtown skyline. Arrive early, it fills up fast! 

Tom Campbell’s Hill : Quieter and a bit tucked away, this northeast hilltop offers wide-open sky views with fewer crowds. 

RiverWalk near Fort Calgary : Easy to access with riverfront charm, this spot gives you a close but relaxed view of the fireworks and skyline reflections on the water. 

2 people watching a display of fireworks

Use Calgary Transit to Save Time & Money 

Getting to Stampede Park is cheap and easy with Calgary Transit. Instead of paying high parking fees, take the CTrain or a bus to get there stress-free. 

CTrain (Light Rail) Options 

  • The Red Line stops at Victoria Park/Stampede Station, located right next to the park’s entrance. 

  • CTrains run every few minutes during peak times, with extended service hours during Stampede. 

  • Many park-and-ride lots across the city offer free parking. 

Bus Routes to the Stampede 

During Stampede Calgary Transit offers 2 main express routes for visitor convenience: 

  • Route 504 with express service from North Pointe (approx. every 10 – 15 min. until 1:00 a.m.) 

  • Route 507 with express service from McKenzie Towne terminal and Douglas Glen Terminal (approx. every 15 minutes until 1:00 a.m.) 

Other convenient routes include: 

  • Route 10 (Southcentre/City Hall) – Stops near Stampede Park. 

  • Route 23 (52 Street East/Chinook) – A great option if coming from southeast Calgary. 

  • Route 300 (Airport/City Centre) – If you're flying in, this express bus connects the airport to downtown, where you can transfer to the CTrain. 

  • Route 302 (BRT Southeast) – A quick way to reach the Stampede grounds from the southeast. 

 

For current fares, schedules, and updates, visit the Calgary Transit website .